Locked On Padres - Daily Podcast On The San Diego Padres

Dylan Cease and Michael King reject the San Diego Padres' qualifying offers, but it's Fun Friday so let's pretend we don't see it and talk about the best moments of the year instead!

But first host Javier Reyes breaks down the roster implications and explores why this isn't necessarily a death sentence for the Padres goals if they lose King and Cease as well as a tribute to recently-passed Cy Young winner Randy Jones. The discussion then shifts to a Fun Friday celebration of 2025's best moments, including Jackson Merrill's magical post-extension home run, Mason Miller's immaculate...

San Diego Padres fans endured a brutal 2025 season filled with crushing disappointments, from devastating injuries to playoff heartbreak. What were the absolute worst moments that defined this frustrating campaign?

Javier Reyes breaks down the Padres' most painful setbacks, including Jackson Merrill's fluky concussion, Jeremiah Estrada's atrocious performance against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Michael King's injury-plagued season, the Luis Campusano hive officially dying, the embarrassing playoff elimination to the Chicago Cubs, the stunning announcement that the Seidler family is selling the team just two years after Peter Seidler's passing, and more! Go Padres.

0:31 Worst Moments of 2025...

San Diego Padres depth players made or broke the 2025 season, but why do veterans consistently decline after joining the organization?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the stark contrast between success stories like Gavin Sheets and Bryce Johnson versus catastrophic failures including Jason Hayward, an epic collapse from Jose Iglesias, and a glut of inadequate left field production until Ramon Laureano showed up. Javi also examines a troubling pattern of failed acquisitions — from old (Adam Frazier) to new (seriously Iglesias was SO bad) — revealing how the Padres have become a "stars and scrubs" team. Go Padres.

0:00 Intr...

San Diego Padres catching was a disaster in 2025, ranking among MLB's worst. How can the organization finally solve this glaring weakness?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down Martin Maldonado's catastrophic negative WAR season, the costly Freddy Fermin trade that surrendered Stephen Kolek and Ryan Bergert, and why Luis Campusano never received a legitimate opportunity despite veteran failures. Javi also dives deeper into the Padres' organizational struggles at the position since 2019 — where they've been the 5th worst among ALL teams since 2019 — as well as top prospect Ethan Salas's development timeline and potential free agent targets like J.T. Realmuto, Dann...

San Diego Padres fans face a seismic shift as the Seidler family announces plans to sell the team just one year after Peter Seidler's death. Will new ownership maintain the competitive payroll, or is a rebuild on the horizon?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the Kyle Hart re-signing and what it signals about Mason Miller's potential conversion to starter. The discussion tackles realistic free agency expectations given the Padres' depleted farm system, why major trades for stars like Tariq Skubal aren't feasible, the complex ownership dynamics with the Seidler family, and why certain star free agents — including so...

The San Diego Padres' shocking decision to explore a sale has left fans reeling just two years after Peter Seidler's passing. Could this betrayal of his generational vision derail the franchise's championship window, or might new ownership actually strengthen the team's future?

Javier Reyes and CBS 8's Jake Garegnani break down the immediate implications for free agency, Craig Stammen's manager hire, and A.J. Preller's front office operations. The discussion tackles fan fears about relocation—drawing painful parallels to the Chargers' departure—while examining why the Padres' strong attendance and playoff success make them an attractive asset. Key...

San Diego Padres ownership shocks baseball world as the Seidler family announces they're exploring a sale of the franchise—just two years after Peter Seidler's death. Could this signal an end of the Padres golden era?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the bombshell news. The discussion examines what this means for Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, and the team's payroll philosophy moving forward,  AJ Preller's future as GM, Craig Stammen's managerial hire, the Sheil Seidler lawsuit in retrospect, the team's rotation needs with Michael King potentially departing, and concerns about reverting to pre-2019 irrelevance. Javi also responds to...

The 2026 MLB free agency class is loaded with potential bargains, traps, and forgotten names that could reshape rosters. Which aging sluggers are about to get overpaid, and which undervalued players represent the smartest investments?

Javier Reyes and guest Paul Holden break down the most intriguing free agents through a slew of award categories, analyzing players like Eugenio Suarez, Gleyber Torres, Jorge Polanco, and Josh Naylor. The discussion covers the current state of second basemen, which power hitters are masking declining plate discipline with home runs, and how the Colorado Rockies' organizational dysfunction is crippling their offseason strategy...

San Diego Padres shock the baseball world with Craig Stammen as their new manager. Will this unconventional hire lead to October success or repeat past mistakes?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the divisive Stammen hiring, examining why AJ Preller chose an inexperienced former reliever over more notable candidates. The discussion also covers some news with Fernando Tatis Jr.'s second Platinum Glove award and whether his defensive excellence compensates for offensive inconsistencies, as well as the concerning news about Albert Pujols' connection to the Tyler Skaggs case and how it may have impacted his managerial prospects. Javi...

San Diego Padres shock the baseball world by naming Craig Stammen—a former reliever with zero managerial experience—as their new skipper. Will this unconventional hire backfire spectacularly, or has GM AJ Preller finally learned from past mistakes?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the stunning decision, examining whether Stammen will simply become another front office puppet or can command respect from stars like Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. The analysis covers Stammen's playing career with the Padres, comparisons to previous managers Bob Melvin and Mike Shildt, and why many fans wanted Albert Pujols instead. Key discussions incl...

Yu Darvish undergoes season-ending surgery that will sideline him through 2026, raising serious questions about potential retirement. Is the San Diego Padres ace done for good?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the devastating news of Darvish's UCL repair surgery and 12-15 month recovery timeline, examining his declining performance and previous retirement considerations. The discussion shifts to hitting coach Victor Rodriguez's potential departure to the Houston Astros after the team's best offensive season under his guidance. Reyes addresses the Padres' organizational uncertainty, including their depleted farm system following aggressive deadline trades, before tackling listener mailbag questions about unrealistic trade...

San Diego Padres bullpen dominates MLB with historic 2025 season. Can they maintain elite status after Robert Suarez's expected departure?

Javier Reyes breaks down the Padres' league-best ERA bullpen performance, highlighting Adrian Morejon's breakout campaign, the first-ever three-reliever All-Star selection from one team, and how this unit carried a 90-win season despite offensive struggles. The analysis also covers some of the shortcomings, though, with Yuki Matsui's puzzling regression, Jeremiah Estrada's second-half home run issues, and critical injuries to Jason Adam that tested the team's depth heading into October. Go Padres.

1:32 Intro-2025 Padres Bullpen Season Review

Robert Suarez and Michael King opt out of their San Diego Padres contracts, reshaping the team's offseason strategy. Are the Padres better off letting premium pitchers walk?

Javier Reyes breaks down the news on King and Suarez, and why this isn't necessarily the time to panic. The discussion covers Michael King's injury concerns and incoming qualifying offer decision, as well as a listener theory on why Albert Pujols could be the wrong choice, and Ruben Niebla's value as pitching coach versus manager. Javi also touches again on the Dodgers win (last time! promise!) and MLB's payroll disparity...

San Diego Padres narrow their managerial search to four finalists, including Albert Pujols and pitching coach Ruben Niebla. Which style makes the most sense?

Javier Reyes breaks down Kevin Acee's report on the finalists—Pujols, Niebla, Rangers special assistant Nick Hundley, and a fourth undisclosed candidate. The discussion explores what each brings to a complicated situation: a star-studded roster, aggressive GM A.J. Preller, and limited farm system depth. After reacting to Fernando Tatis Jr.'s third Gold Glove win, he gets into the mailbag to discuss the risk of losing Niebla to another organization if he's pa...

San Diego Padres face a critical 2025 offseason with limited budget but unlimited opportunity. Can smart depth signings bring the magic back?

Javier Reyes breaks down the upcoming free agent class, analyzing which players the Padres can realistically pursue given their financial constraints. The discussion covers elite talents like Kyle Tucker and Pete Alonso who are likely headed elsewhere, while identifying affordable targets including Merrill Kelly, Brandon Woodruff, and Marcell Ozuna who could address the team's needs in starting pitching, power hitting, and depth. Other key topics include Michael King's mysterious injury situation and potential contract, the philosophy...

With all of the on-base skills, is versatile infielder Jake Cronenworth actually the most underrated Padre on the roster?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down Cronenworth's elite plate discipline—ranking right alongside Aaron Judge and Juan Soto—while examining his struggles against off-speed pitches and disappointing playoff performance. The analysis covers his defensive metrics at second base versus first base, his surprising sprint speed and prolonged at bats, and why his $80 million contract extension may have been strategically brilliant despite appearing as an overpay. Javi also discusses, more generally, the value of depth players on championship rosters and how...

Xander Bogaerts posted career-best defensive numbers, but his overall offensive numbers raise serious questions about his massive 11-year, $275 million contract with the San Diego Padres.

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the shortstop's paradoxical season, analyzing whether or not Bogaerts has been one of the league's biggest busts since joining San Diego in 2023. The discussion covers his elite percentile defensive performance, improved hard hit rates, career-high 20 stolen bases, and catastrophic numbers in clutch situations. Key topics also include potential mechanical adjustments with a new hitting coach, comparisons to other problematic contracts like Anthony Rendon's deal, and whether or...

San Diego Padres face crucial offseason decisions. Will AJ Preller's job be on the line?

Host Javier Reyes power ranks the biggest questions surrounding the Padres, from managerial changes to potential roster moves. He analyzes Yu Darvish's retirement rumors, Joe Musgrove's rehab progress, some trade buzz involving Freddy Peralta and MacKenzie Gore, the team's spending plans post-Peter Seidler, if Michael King's tenure in San Diego is truly donezo, and more! Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Power ranking Padres offseason questions

5:05 Will the Padres spend big this offseason?

10:10 Is Yu Darvish considering retirement?

San Diego Padres' managerial search heats up with surprising candidates. Is Albert Pujols the answer to the Friars' dugout dilemma?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the pros and cons of Pujols as a potential skipper, exploring his legendary status and relationship with other MLB stars. The discussion shifts to former Padres catcher Carlos Hernandez's candidacy, before Javi reacts to some listener questions in the mailbag on the team's offensive strategy, championship windows, the need for a new hitting coach, and more! go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Pujols as potential manager

5:05 What is the right managerial...

World Series Showdown: Dodgers vs. Blue Jays - Who Will Reign Supreme?

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays face off in an unexpected World Series matchup. Can the Blue Jays' complete team challenge the Dodgers' powerhouse lineup? Key discussions include team strengths, payroll disparities, and the impact of high-spending franchises on MLB. The hosts analyze starting pitching, bullpen strategies, and offer bold predictions for the series outcome. Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. take center stage as potential game-changers.

Tune in for expert insights on this thrilling World Series clash and...

Luis Arráez: Generational contact hitter or overrated asset for the San Diego Padres? Javier Reyes breaks down the controversial infielder's 2025 season performance.

Javi analyzes Arráez's exceptional batting average prowess and contact skills, while critically examining his plate discipline and defensive shortcomings. Reyes also explores how Arráez's presence could have affected the Padres' lineup, particularly Fernando Tatis Jr.'s production, and also weighs in on Arráez's future prospects and potential value in free agency. Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Luis Arráez 2025 season review

5:06 Arráez's positives: Contact skills and availability

10:1...

Dylan Cease's 2025 season: A tale of strikeouts and struggles. Will the former White Sox ace bounce back in free agency?

Javier Reyes breaks down Cease's rollercoaster year, highlighting his impressive strikeout prowess and consistent ability to throw innings. The analysis then jumps into the struggle side of things, from declining slider effectiveness, and clutch performance issues. Javi explores potential reasons behind the pitcher's struggles and speculates on his free agency prospects. Could a short-term, high-value contract be in Cease's future? Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Dylan Cease's season review

5:07 Surprising improvements despite struggles

10:13...

Rockies and Padres face crucial offseason decisions. Can new leadership save these NL West franchises?

Javier Reyes and Paul Holden (host of the Locked On Rockies podcast) analyze the Rockies' front office shakeup, debating the appeal of the GM position given ownership issues and poor performance. They explore the Padres' managerial search, with Albert Pujols recently emerging as a potential candidate, and discuss San Diego's competitive window, and breakdown an exciting Blue Jays vs. Dodgers World Series matchup, featuring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Shohei Ohtani. They conclude with a fun conversation on which franchise is more cursed...

Nick Pivetta's 2025 season with the San Diego Padres: A game-changer or a fluke? Javier Reyes breaks down the right-hander's impressive season.

On today's show, Javier Reyes dives deep into what made Pivetta so this season. From arsenal improvements, focusing on his devastating sweeper, and potential regression factors. Jav also explores Pivetta getting bonus points in the context of this Padres team NEEDING rotational stability. Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Nick Pivetta's 2025 season review

4:04 Pitch usage and effectiveness

8:41 Potential regression factors for next season

22:54 Context of Pivetta's performance amid team struggles

Padres managerial shakeup: Who's next at the helm? AJ Preller's crucial decision looms large for San Diego's future.

Javier Reyes breaks down potential candidates to lead the Padres, from Scott Servais to...Ichiro Suzuki?? A big ole chunky episode of mailbag questions, analyzing Jackson Merrill's breakout potential in 2026, recent developments in the still-ongoing postseason, of course some jabs at the Dodgers trolls, and more! Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: CHUNKY MAILBAG

5:35 Analyzing Mike Shildt's departure and managerial style

11:47 Potential manager candidates and listener suggestions

18:55 Responding to Dodgers trolls and rivalry comments<...

Padres managerial shakeup: Mike Shildt's sudden retirement rocks San Diego. Is a new era on the horizon for the struggling franchise?

Host Javier Reyes and CBS 8 Sports San Diego reporter Jake Garegnani break down the shocking news of Shildt's departure, exploring potential replacements and the impact on the team's future. The duo analyzes Yu Darvish's role moving forward and dissects the Juan Soto trade, which Javi is especially and incredibly struggling to come to grips with? Garegnani offers insider perspectives on the Padres' strategy, including the possibility of moving Darvish to the bullpen and the search for...

Jackson Merrill's 2025 season: A rollercoaster ride for the San Diego Padres' young star. Can he bounce back to his rookie year form?

Javier Reyes breaks down Merrill's sophomore slump, from the advanced stats to simple vibes. The host explores Merrill's struggles with off-speed pitches and left-handed pitchers, while highlighting his strong finish and clutch performances. Javi dives into Merrill's hitting mechanics, expected stats, whether or not the extension was a mistake, potential for 30-homer seasons, and more! Go Padres. 

0:00 Intro: Jackson Merrill 2025 season review

5:09 Clutch factor and defense

10:13 Why the sophomore s...

Padres' managerial search heats up as Javier Reyes predicts _______ as the next skipper. Will this former manager lead San Diego to glory?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down potential candidates to replace Mike Shildt, analyzing options from Joe Maddon to Bruce Bochy, to in-house options like AJ Ellis and Ruben Niebla. He emphasizes the need for a fresh, progressive approach and discusses how the new manager could impact star players. Javi also addresses listener questions and concerns about the Padres' depleted farm system, Tatis losing his mojo, and more! Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: The Padres need a...

Padres manager Mike Shildt's sudden retirement shocks MLB. Is there more to the story than meets the eye?

Javier Reyes breaks down Shildt's departure, analyzing its impact on San Diego's dugout dynamics and future. The host tackles listener and fan reactions, explores the true value of managers in baseball, and dissects the Padres' roster construction. Javi also addresses criticisms of star players Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr., comparing their on-field behavior to other MLB icons, and whether or not the team could take a few notes from the successes of the Brewers and Blue Jays. Go...

Padres' Shildt Shocks World with Sudden Retirement: What's Next for San Diego?

Mike Shildt's unexpected retirement as Padres manager sends shockwaves throughout MLB. Host Javier Reyes breaks down the implications for San Diego's future, including what this says about AJ Preller's role. Will this lead to a rebuild or a new direction for the Padres? Javi analyzes fan reactions, speculates on replacement candidates including internals, examines how this decision impacts stars like Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr, the blame being all over the place, and more! Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Mike Shildt RETIRES?!?!?!

7:38...

Manny Machado's 2025 season: A turning point for the Padres' star? His performance raises questions about the future of San Diego's championship aspirations.

Javier Reyes analyzes Machado's year, from his consistent power numbers to concerning defensive metrics. The host explores the veteran's potential decline, comparing him to other third basemen and contemplating his role moving forward. Other key areas of the year-in-review include Machado's struggles in high-leverage situations, postseason difficulties, and the impact on the Padres' competitiveness. Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Manny Machado 2025 season review

5:05 Machado's consistency and health as a Padre

10:11 Concerning...

Fernando Tatis Jr.'s 2025 season: Superstar or just very good? The San Diego Padres' $340 million man faces scrutiny after a power decline.

Javier Reyes breaks down Tatis's performance, highlighting his improved walk rate and stellar defense in right field. But questions linger about his diminished slugging and struggles against breaking pitches. Is Tatis still worth his massive contract? The analysis covers his .268/.368/.446 slash line, excellent WAR total, and some of the other small things he doesn't get credit for. Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: The 2025 Fernando Tatis Jr. season review

5:05 Defensive excellence

10:09 Where'd...

With the Padres playoff dreams shattered, Michael King's future and the team's controversial umpire clash take center stage.

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the San Diego Padres early postseason exit, focusing on Michael King's bizarre playoff showing, potential free agency decision, and the fallout from the game-changing strike call on Xander Bogaerts. The analysis covers the team's struggles with runners in scoring position, Manny Machado being exposed in the postseason, and why Javi calls it the Padres' "loser energy." Reyes also gets in the mailbag, addressing fan reactions, media interactions, and defends players against criticisms from rival...

San Diego Padres face tough decisions after playoff disappointment. Should management changes be on the horizon?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down the 2025 seasons of manager Mike Shildt and GM A.J. Preller, weighing fan frustrations against their contributions. The analysis covers Shildt's two-year tenure, the many good and many bad of the Preller era, and whether or not he believes it's truly time for a change. Javi also continues the mailbag looking into, key moments from the season, including pitching decisions and lineup choices, and the legend of young Jackson Merrill.

0:00 Intro: Playoff disappointment and...

Padres playoff dreams shattered: What's next for San Diego's star-studded roster?

Host Javier Reyes dissects the San Diego Padres' disappointing 2025 season and early playoff exit. From Fernando Tatis Jr.'s offensive struggles to Yu Darvish's postseason start, Javi gives his full manifesto on where the Padres seem to be at. He explores A.J. Preller's roster construction strategy, questioning the balance between big-name acquisitions and prospect development, while answering a TON of listener comments about Manny Machado, Jake Cronenworth, and the pitching staff's usage in crucial games. Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Special Mailbag Monday edition

The Locked on MLB Squad dissects the thrilling Wild Card round, spotlighting Cam Schlittler's dominant performance and the New York Yankees' unexpected success. They analyze crucial pitching decisions, debating the merits of modern bullpen management versus traditional strategies. They offer predictions for the Divisional Series, focusing on the Philadelphia Phillies-Los Angeles Dodgers and Yankees-Toronto Blue Jays matchups.

The hosts also challenge the "championship or bust" mentality, exploring the value of the entire MLB season beyond October glory. Tune in for expert insights on how analytics and gut instincts shape postseason baseball strategy.

...

Padres' postseason dreams shattered as Cubs clinch Wild Card series. Can San Diego bounce back in 2026?

Host Javier Reyes and CBS8 Sports' Karthik Venkataraman break down the Padres elimination, highlighting offensive woes and pitching decisions. They analyze Fernando Tatis Jr.'s struggles, Yu Darvish's disappointing start, and Michael King's limited usage. The duo also explores crucial offseason questions, including potential roster changes, free agent targets, some silver linings for 2026 (if anything), and whether or not Mike Shildt and AJ Preller's jobs are on the line. It's been an honor, ya'll. Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Padres are...

The Padres and Cubs play the 3rd and final game of their National League Wild Card Series.

The Cubs knocked San Diego starter Yu Darvish out of the game in the 2nd inning, scoring 2x on an RBI single off the bat of Pete Crow-Armstrong and a bases-loaded walk by reliever Jeremiah Estrada, who escaped that jam and gave the Pads 2 scoreless innings after coming on with the bases loaded and nobody out.

The Padres have just not been able to get anything going on offense.

***** ‘LIVE’ Instant...

Padres stun Cubs, force Game 3 in Wild Card thriller. Can San Diego's momentum carry them to a series win?

Host Javier Reyes breaks down Dylan Cease and Manny Machado's playoff redemption moments, Mike Shildt's masterful bullpen management, highlighting Mason Miller's electric relief appearance, and all the good vibes in-between! The discussion also covers San Diego's potential offensive awakening, Chicago's questionable pitching decisions, and the high-stakes Game 3 matchup between Yu Darvish and Jameson Taillon. Go Padres.

0:00 Intro: Padres win Game 2, force decisive Game 3

4:04 Cease!!!!!!

8:37 Manny Machado's clutch home run and swagger

Manny Machado hit a 2-run home run, Fernando Tatis Jr. scored 2 runs, Dylan Cease + the bullpen were absolutely electric, and the San Diego Padres shut oit the Chicago Cins 3-0 to avoid elimination, tie the series 1-1 and set up a winner-takes-all Game 3 of this National League Wild Card Series tomorrow at Wrigley Field.

***** ‘LIVE’ Instant Post-Game Reaction from Jim “GRIES” Grieshaber and Javier Reyes

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The Pads and Cubs play Game 3 tomorrow at Wrigley Field, with 1st pitch set for 12:08pm PT.

Yu Darvish wi...